In recent years, natural pain relievers have become popular alternatives to traditional medicine. While it can often be difficult to keep track of the ebbs and flows of this industry, there are a number of natural pain relievers that are based on sound science. Some people find that consuming natural, holistic supplements can help minimize pain in the short term, and natural anti-inflammatories are particularly beneficial as part of a balanced diet. However, if an individual’s pain becomes debilitating or persists over several weeks, it is important to visit a physician.

Examples of natural pain relievers

Some of the most common natural pain relievers include:

Fish oil – contains essential omega-3 fatty acids

Olive oil – natural anti-inflammatory

Blueberries and cherries – antioxidant properties

Glucosamine – may reduce pain in arthritic joints

Devil’s claw – known for alleviating back pain

Spearmint, peppermint and wintergreen oils – popular analgesics

Ginger – has anti-inflammatory properties

Curry spice – contains anti-inflammatory properties

Applications

Holistic treatments, such as natural pain relievers, can often help alleviate neck and back pain caused by degenerative spine conditions, such as a bulging disc, a herniated disc or other forms of intervertebral disc deterioration. However, it is important to remember that pain relievers do not treat the source of the pain, merely the symptoms. So, for lasting relief, lifestyle changes and even medical attention may be required.

In most cases, neck and back pain will heal naturally over several days without requiring medical treatment. Anti-inflammatory foods as part of a healthy diet can help limit the discomfort and in some cases even expedite the healing process. In the event that pain continues, a visit to the physician is usually necessary to determine the source of the discomfort. Further conservative treatment, including prescribed pain medication, physical therapy and heat therapy, are usually effective toward accomplishing pain relief.

The thing to keep in mind about natural pain relievers is that they may play a role in the healing process, but if your pain becomes debilitating or lasts for weeks, then you should visit a licensed medical professional to obtain a diagnosis for your discomfort.

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*Individual spine conditions, treatment and recovery times may vary. Each patient's experience with minimally invasive spine surgery will differ. All surgical procedures involve some level of risk. If directed to pursue surgery by your physician, prompt action is advised, as waiting may reduce the efficacy of surgical treatment. Some patients may require an experience that exceeds five days and others may require as few as four days. Patients may be required to rest 48 hours postsurgery. Postoperative instructions vary from patient to patient. Follow your doctor's advice. These procedures are reserved for those patients medically cleared and scheduled for minimally invasive treatment. Paid endorsements for Laser Spine Institute may not be for typical results. Laser Spine Institute requires each surgeon to complete an extensive Laser Spine Institute training program. MRI reviews are preliminary, and some patients' individual medical conditions may require additional testing that Laser Spine Institute will facilitate through a third-party service provider. Diagnostic procedures in some facilities are facilitated by Laser Spine Institute through a third-party provider. Medicaid currently not accepted.

**The opinions expressed in patient testimonials are by patients only; they are not qualified medical professionals. These opinions should not be relied upon as, or in place of, the medical advice of a licensed doctor or other health care provider.